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When you sign up to receive the MTS email newsletter, you’ll not only get first crack at great new trips, exciting events, and enticing travel specials, but you’ll have a chance to win some pretty cool travel prizes too. Every month we’ll pick a new email subscriber from that month to receive a great prize: a rugged Mountain Hardwear daypack, cool trekking poles from Leki, or...?

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Ultimate Namibia Safari

From $5,995

Experience the wind-sculpted beauty of the Namib desert and visit the incredible sand dunes at Sossusvlei

Discover how desert-adapted animals, including the world's last free-roaming black rhinos, survive in one of the world's harshest environments

See big cats at the world-famous AfriCat Foundation, set in the stunning Okonjima Nature Reserve

Enjoy an intimate cultural visit with the indigenous Himba people and learn about their centuries-old nomadic way of life

Journey through a timeless land of arid deserts, majestic sand dunes, Stone Age rock art, and a 280-million-year-old petrified forest on this amazing Namibian Safari! Your curiosity will be piqued as you follow experienced guides and trackers through the last-remaining haven for desert-adapted black rhino, by vehicle and on foot, and explore landscape after landscape of surreal beauty. You'll visit the beautiful sand dunes of Sossusvlei and see the highest free-standing dunes in the world (over 1,000 feet) at Namib Naukluft National Park; you'll marvel at the San bushman rock engravings at famed Twyfelfontein and experience the game-rich waterholes of Etosha National Park. Animal encounters continue at the AfriCat Foundation in Okonjima, where you'll see cheetahs and leopards on exhilarating safaris, and on a sea kayaking adventure at Walvis Bay's Pelican Point. To top it off, you’ll experience genuine encounters with the nomadic Himba people. Namibia is perhaps the most “out there” destination in all Africa and we’ll show you the best of it— including perfectly relaxing deluxe camps set in dramatic locations.

You may arrive anytime at Windhoek's Hosea Kutako International airport (WDH) today, but please be sure to arrive before 6 p.m. so that you can participate in the first trip briefing over dinner with your guide at 7 p.m. An MTS representative will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel, the modern Galton House. Check in and freshen up before dinner, when you will meet your guide and the other members of the group.

Dinner

Accommodation:Galton House

Day 2: AfriCat Foundation

This morning you will be collected at the hotel by your guide for the drive north of Windhoek heading towards Okonjima. If the group wishes, we can stop in Okahandja to visit the local craft market, though it is often best to leave any serious curio shopping until the end of the safari. We'll reach Okonjima in time for lunch. Okonjima is home to the AfriCat Foundation, a wildlife sanctuary dedicated to research and rehabilitation of Africa's big cats, especially injured or captured leopard and cheetah. Close encounters with leopard and cheetah are an unforgettable highlight. We'll start with a guided afternoon excursion to either track cheetah on foot or see leopard from the comfort of an open safari vehicle (whichever activity is not done today will be done tomorrow morning). After dinner, we'll take a night drive to a nearby hide where nocturnal animals such as porcupine, caracal, honey badger, and even leopard may be seen.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Okonjima Bush Camp

Day 3: Drive to Etosha National Park

After our second AfriCat activity, we return to Okonjima Bush Camp for brunch before driving further north to the southern boundary of Etosha National Park. We should arrive in time to take a short evening game drive within Etosha park, leaving before sunset and arriving back at camp in time for dinner.

Etosha owes its unique landscape to the Etosha Pan, a vast shallow depression of approximately 1,930 square miles which forms the heart of the park. Once part of a large inland lake fed by rivers from the north and east, it dried up 120 million years ago as continental drift changed the slope of the land and the course of the tributaries. This white, chalky expanse colors the park, and with the waterholes creates the characteristic atmosphere of Etosha today. We'll spend two nights at Andersson's Camp, located in the Ongava Private Game Reserve bordering Etosha. The camp overlooks a waterhole where guests can enjoy the interaction of wildlife coming and going throughout the day and night.

Note- The 2018 itinerary will feature Onguma Tree Top Camp

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Andersson's Camp OR Onguma Tree Top Camp

Day 4: Etosha National Park

Today will be a full day of game viewing in Etosha National Park, Namibia's premier wildlife destination. We can either do two game drives, one early and one afternoon with a return to the lodge at midday for lunch, or we can pack a picnic and spend the whole day in the park (majority vote will decide). Etosha National Park is typified by white calcrete soils, rocky outcrops, and scrub-covered plains which support a variety of game such as giraffe, zebra, lion, rhino, wildebeest, elephant, and various antelope species including oryx, kudus and the endemic black-faced impala. Night drives are not possible within Etosha National Park itself, but are possible in the private game reserve of Ongava, where our camp is located.

Andersson's Camp was named after Swedish explorer Charles Andersson -- one of the first Europeans to "discover" Etosha, Africa's largest saltpan. The resurrected former farmstead that stands on the site now forms the center of a charming camp fronting onto a productive waterhole. The 20 tented en suite units are raised on decks for an enhanced view of the waterhole and surrounding plains.

Note- The 2018 itinerary will feature Onguma Tree Top Camp

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Andersson's Camp OR Onguma Tree Top Camp

Day 5: Damaraland

After breakfast, we'll make our west to Damaraland. This landscape is characterized by hills interspersed with valleys and dry riverbeds. Early morning fog brings precious water to flora and fauna, which have adapted superbly to the harsh environment. Despite its aridity, Damaraland supports a surprising diversity of wildlife, including a healthy number of desert-adapted elephant, as well as giraffe, gemsbok, springbok, the occasional cheetah, and black rhino. We'll stop for lunch under a shady tree out in the wilderness, then begin our search for a traditional Himba settlement, which may take some time as the Himba are a nomadic tribe and may move their cattle to better grazing areas without notice!

The Himba are cattle and goat herders, and are best known for the striking ochre they wear to protect their skin from the desert sun. Over the years, this resilient tribe has survived drought and war, and—with the help of international activists—successfully fought the damming of the Kunene River, which would have flooded their ancestral lands. Under the independent Namibian government, the Himba have mobile schools and control over wildlife and tourism in their nature conservancies. The remote, harsh desert environment has helped them maintain their pastoral lifestyle, and their population currently numbers between 20,000 and 50,000. Many Himba still wear traditional dress, consisting of animal-skin skirts and jewelry that includes coiled leather necklaces, copper bangles, and beaded anklets, and Himba women often sport elaborate braided hairdos.

After an early breakfast, we'll set off with our guide and experienced local trackers to spend most of the day rhino tracking. Namibia is home to the larger of the two subspecies of the black rhinoceros found in southern Africa. The only population that remains in the wild—unhindered by fences and outside of reserves—these rhinos occupy an arid range in the western Kaokoveld. Their preferred habitat is the mountainous escarpment, but they follow ephemeral rivers into the northern Namib as well, especially when conditions are favorable after the rain. They are the only black rhino in Africa that are internationally recognized as a "desert group." Like desrt-adapted elephant, they cover great distances, walking and feeding at night, and resting during the day. Our trackers will look for tracks on the ground and teach us how to identify them. We'll have lunch in the field and return to camp in the late afternoon with some time to relax in the shade of the Mopane trees.

Our mobile camp is fully-serviced and equipped so you can simply relax and revel in the feeling of space and solitude that makes Namibia so special. We use large 10 by 10 foot igloo tents with built in groundsheets and mosquito screens. Each tent has robust light, a bedside table, and camp beds with mattress, duvet, pillows and sheets. Bathroom facilities are shared with flush toilets and running water in the showers. Our camps are all set up for you before you arrive and have their own chef who prepares delicious, wholesome 3-course meals using fresh produce whenever possible.

Note- The 2018 itinerary will feature //Huab Under Canvas Camp

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Damaraland Mobile Camp OR //Huab Under Canvas Camp

Day 7: Damaraland

Today we head south to Camp Kipwe, situated in the heart of Damaraland. This area is known for its displays of color, magnificent table-topped mountains, rock formations and bizarre-looking vegetation. It is the variety and loneliness of the area as well as the scenic splendor which will reward and astound you. During the drive south, we'll explore by 4WD the ephemeral Aba Huab and Huab River valleys, in search of game, including desert-adapted elephants. Desert-adapted elephants in Kaokoland and the Namib walk further for water and fodder than any other elephant in Africa. The distances between waterholes and feeding ground can be as great as 42 miles. To meet their nutritional requirements they graze on no fewer than 74 of the 103 plant species that grow in their range. Lunch will be picnic-style in the bush, with a late afternoon arrival into our camp.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Camp Kipwe

Day 8: Twyfelfontein to Swakopmund

After an early breakfast, we'll head out to explore the nearby attractions and geological features of the Twyfelfontein rock engravings, Burnt Mountain, and the Organ Pipes. The petroglyphs at Twyfelfontein, recently named a World Heritage Site, are difficult to date accurately, but archaeologists believe they span a period of about 1,500 to 5,000 years ago. The artists were groups of San who walked the length of the country and recorded images from their journeys on massive sandstone cliffs in the area. The engravings lie along two circular routes; one is an hour's climb and the easier route takes about one hour and forty minutes. A rounded hill located just a few miles from Twyfelfontein, known as the Burnt Mountain, seems to catch fire at sunrise and sunset. This is due to a chemical reaction that took place roughly 125 million years ago when molten lava penetrated organic shale and limestone deposits, resulting in contact metamorphism. The Organ Pipes are another geological curiosity in the area consisting of a mass of perpendicular dolerite columns that intruded the surrounding rocks millions of years ago and have since been exposed in a ravine due to river erosion.

Once these sites have been visited, we'll head further south past Brandberg, Namibia's tallest mountain, then veer west to the coastal town of Henties Bay before turning south again to Swakopmund.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Hansa Hotel

Day 9: Kayaking Walvis Bay

After an early breakfast, we'll drive along the scenic coastal road to Walvis Bay for a memorable Namibian kayaking adventure within the outer lagoon. Before getting into our kayaks, we'll drive to the lighthouse at Pelican Point and stop at the salt works to admire the views and check out the birdlife. Kayaking is an ideal way to see Cape fur seals, Heaviside and bottlenose dolphins, pelicans, flamingos, and a wide variety of other sea birds. If we are lucky, there is the chance of seeing whales, leatherback turtles, and sunfish as well. We'll stop for snacks on the beach before heading back to Walvis Bay. No experience is necessary to enjoy the kayaking today. We'll head back to the hotel in the afternoon for a little leisure time before dinner.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Hansa Hotel

Day 10: Drive to Sossusvlei

Our fascinating drive today takes us southeast through the awesome and ever-changing desert landscapes of the Gaub and Kuiseb canyons until we find the dunes at the entrance to Namib Naukluft National Park. En route you will stop in the charming 'town' of Solitaire. Make sure to try the warm apple tart at Moose McGregor's Bakery - the best in all of Southern Africa! There is the option, at additional cost, to take a scenic flight today, over the Dune Sea, abandoned mining camps, shipwrecks, Sandwich Harbour, and salt pans to Sossusvlei, instead of driving. Those trip members who choose to fly will meet up with the guides and group later in the day at the Sossus Dune Lodge.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Sossus Dune Lodge

Day 11: Sossusvlei

This morning you will rise early for a magical excursion with your guide in the Namib Naukluft National Park, setting off from the lodge within the park boundary. As a result, you can be on your way at sunrise to capture the dunes while the light is soft and shadows accentuate their towering shapes and curves—a photographer's dream! This area boasts some of the highest free-standing sand dunes in the world, and your guide will give you an insight to the formation of the Namib Desert and the myriad of fascinating creatures and plants that have adapted to survive its harsh environs. Once you have explored to your heart's content you can enjoy a relaxing picnic breakfast under the shade of a camel thorn tree.

Return to Sossus Dune Lodge in the early afternoon for a late lunch, stopping off to view Sesriem Canyon en route, if this wasn't done the previous day. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Sossus Dune Lodge OR Desert Homestead Outpost

Day 12: Sossusvlei to Windhoek

After breakfast you bid farewell to the Namib Desert, traversing the Great Escarpment and scenic Khomas Hochland highlands to make your way back to Windhoek. Upon arrival in Windhoek your guide will transfer you to Galton House for the last night of your trip. This evening you will have your farewell dinner at The Galton's in-house restaurant.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Galton House

Day 13: Depart Windhoek

Spend as much of the day as is available relaxing at the guest house or exploring town until it is time to be transferred to the Windhoek International Airport in time for your international flight home.

Located in a desert-adapted black rhino area in the Huab Conservancy in Damaraland, is this amazing private camp. //Huab Under Canvas camp uses large rectangular Meru tents (4m x 3m and 2.5 m high) with built in groundsheets and mosquito screens on all doors and windows. Each tent is equipped with solar lighting, bedside table, comfortable standard height camp beds and mattresses with normal bedding as well as an additional blanket and a hot water bottle for those chilly nights, and a cabinet in which to store clothing and other belongings that need to be accessible. Towels and toiletries are also provided in the bathroom which also has its own toilet (flush or field depending on the location of the camp), bucket shower and washbasin. A small table, mirror and solar lighting are also provided in the bathroom, and chairs on the patio allow guests to relax and enjoy the surrounding view.

Andersson's Camp — Etosha, Namibia

Named for Charles Andersson, the Swedish explorer who first "discovered" the Etosha pan in 1851, Andersson's Camp is set against the stunning backdrop of the low Ondundozonanandana Mountains. Located within the private Ongava Game Reserve, which borders Etosha National Park, the camp looks onto a watering hole where guests can observe wildlife throughout the day and night. Between viewings of rhinos, zebras, giraffes, lions and more, guests can enjoy the grounds of this former farmhouse, which has been updated with modern facilities such as a dining area, bar and swimming pool. Tents, actually more like huts, radiate outwards into the secluded Mopane woodlands typical of the region. They feature simple yet elegant decor, and have been constructed using mix of stone cladding, canvas and wood, with a small veranda and open-air en-suite bathrooms. It's an atmospheric camp with incredible wildlife watching.

Camp Kipwe — Damaraland, Namibia

From a distance, it looks like a collection of boulders that have settled after a landslide. Upon closer inspection, you see it, nestled among the massive rocks—a grouping of thatched roof huts that cleverly blend in with their impressive surroundings. This singular hotel experience is Camp Kipwe, made up of nine elegant yet understated bungalows. Outside each bungalow is an en-suite bathroom, with a shower, and a private veranda overlooking the surrounding plains. The views of Damaraland's unique geological landscape are stunning, and the wildlife that awaits to be seen is awe-inspiring. After a long day of tracking elephant herds, return to the peaceful lodge for an excellent meal and sundowner cocktails—a perfect end to an incredible adventure.

Damaraland Mobile Camp — Damaraland, Namibia

Our mobile camps are non-participatory and serviced to ensure that guests are extremely comfortable while out in the less developed and remote wilderness areas. We use 10ft x10f x 7ft igloo tents with built-in groundsheet and mosquito screens on all doors and windows. Each tent is equipped with bedside tables, camp beds, a bed roll contianing a mattress, duvet, pillow, sheet and towel. Ablutions, with flush toilet and running water in the showers, are shared among guests.

Desert Homestead Outpost — Sossusvlei

Deep in the desert of Sossusvlei, Desert Homestead Lodge Outpost offers relaxed hospitality in a spectacular natural atmosphere. Enjoy the impressive panoramic views from one of the 12 stylish guesthouses, which offer shaded sun decks, air conditioning, coffee makers and refrigerators. The main house features a restaurant, lounge and pool area. On the wide open plains there are often cheetahs to observe, roaming the endless grasslands.

Galton House — Windhoek, Namiba

Galton House is one of Windhoek's newest accommodation establishments. The seven rooms are all equipped with internet connectivity, satelite television, coffee/tea station and general guest amenities. The communal areas consist of a large lounge, dining room, swimming pool and garden. There is also delightful al fresco dining area by the pool, serving freshly prepared and very tasty meals. There are also a number shops, restarants and supermarkets within easy walking distance.

Hansa Hotel — Swakopmund

The Hansa Hotel is nestled in the heart of the charming town of Swakopmund, Namibia. The German-style accommodations in this classical building dating from 1905 are an integral part of Swakopmund's architectural heritage. Each room is individually decorated and fitted with radiant floor heating, satellite television, hairdryers, safes, coffee/tea facilities and en-suite bathrooms. There are two restaurants on-site, with breakfast and dinner served in the main dining room and lunch on the terrace. Cozy up to the fireplace at the bar for an evening cocktail after a long day of exploring Namibia.

Okonjima Bush Camp — Okonjima, Namibia

Okonjima Bush Camp is in charming thatched African style chalets linked by walkways to a main Lapa area shaped like a camelthorn pod where meals are taken and activities begin. Each exclusive en suite chalet is completely private and the green canvas 'walls' can be rolled up to give you an 180 degree view so you can lie in bed and watch life in the bush going on around you whilst you relax in total comfort.

Onguma Tree Top Camp — Onguma Game Reserve- Etosha

Onguma Tree Top Camp is a small and intimate camp, especially designed for those travellers who would like to truly experience the bush in all its raw splendour. This is where guests are able to come and relax for a few days in the midst of their busy travelling schedule, and just breathe in the aromas of the bush and take in all the wildness that this place has to offer.

The Camp is built on wooden stilts amongst the tree tops with full views over one of the most beautiful watering holes on Onguma Game Reserve. The Camp consists of 4 thatched rooms with canvas walls, outside showers, a dining room and a main complex. Onguma Tree Top Camp is a place to savour, small bits at a time. A place where giraffe, zebra, lion, and many other species of antelope come to quench their thirst. A place where birds and animals become your daily companion. Onguma - a place you will not want to forget.

Note: The 2018 itinerary will feature Onguma Tree Top Camp

Sossus Dune Lodge — Sossusvlei, Namibia

Sossus Dune Lodge is ideally located with dramatic views out over the surrounding desert landscapes; its unique location allows you early entry into the dunes at Sossusvlei an hour before sunrise and a late exit an hour after sunset. Accommodation is in very comfortable en-suite wooden and canvas chalets that lead to a private wooden veranda overlooking the expansive desert plains. There is a large main area consisting of a dining room, a swimming pool and a pleasant bar.

"Our trip to Namibia with MTS was magical and action packed. It provided us with a rich experience of the culture, history, wildlife, natural beauty, desert, people, and its unique ecosystem. Our guide was well-informed, a walking encyclopedia of knowledge all things Namibian, and provided us with one of the most amazing adventures in years of travel." Noemi Rosa

"MTS provided our family with an exciting adventure in a very fascinating country, Namibia." June Scott

"We have gone on many Mountain Travel Sobek trips—this trip was fantastic. Perez is an excellent guide.” Robert & Caroline

"Perez is the best guide ever." Vaughn Anderson

"Namibia is still not well known as an African destination. Get there soon before the word gets out!" Sara Gutierres

“We would highly recommend this safari to anyone wanting to experience the country of Namibia. This safari was enjoyed not only for the animals and birds but also for the varied terrain that we travelled through.” David & Ardella Z

"Perez is the best guide we have ever experienced. He is not only knowledgeable about Namibia, including geology, botany, animals, cultures and the land but also very professional and attentive. We would like to travel with him again." Susan B

Experience the wind-sculpted beauty of the Namib desert and visit the incredible sand dunes at Sossusvlei

Discover how desert-adapted animals, including the world's last free-roaming black rhinos, survive in one of the world's harshest environments

See big cats at the world-famous AfriCat Foundation, set in the stunning Okonjima Nature Reserve

Enjoy an intimate cultural visit with the indigenous Himba people and learn about their centuries-old nomadic way of life

Journey through a timeless land of arid deserts, majestic sand dunes, Stone Age rock art, and a 280-million-year-old petrified forest on this amazing Namibian Safari! Your curiosity will be piqued as you follow experienced guides and trackers through the last-remaining haven for desert-adapted black rhino, by vehicle and on foot, and explore landscape after landscape of surreal beauty. You'll visit the beautiful sand dunes of Sossusvlei and see the highest free-standing dunes in the world (over 1,000 feet) at Namib Naukluft National Park; you'll marvel at the San bushman rock engravings at famed Twyfelfontein and experience the game-rich waterholes of Etosha National Park. Animal encounters continue at the AfriCat Foundation in Okonjima, where you'll see cheetahs and leopards on exhilarating safaris, and on a sea kayaking adventure at Walvis Bay's Pelican Point. To top it off, you’ll experience genuine encounters with the nomadic Himba people. Namibia is perhaps the most “out there” destination in all Africa and we’ll show you the best of it— including perfectly relaxing deluxe camps set in dramatic locations.

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reviews

"Our trip to Namibia with MTS was magical and action packed. It provided us with a rich experience of the culture, history, wildlife, natural beauty, desert, people, and its unique ecosystem. Our guide was well-informed, a walking encyclopedia of knowledge all things Namibian, and provided us with one of the most amazing adventures in years of travel." Noemi Rosa

"MTS provided our family with an exciting adventure in a very fascinating country, Namibia." June Scott

"We have gone on many Mountain Travel Sobek trips—this trip was fantastic. Perez is an excellent guide.” Robert & Caroline

"Perez is the best guide ever." Vaughn Anderson

"Namibia is still not well known as an African destination. Get there soon before the word gets out!" Sara Gutierres

“We would highly recommend this safari to anyone wanting to experience the country of Namibia. This safari was enjoyed not only for the animals and birds but also for the varied terrain that we travelled through.” David & Ardella Z

"Perez is the best guide we have ever experienced. He is not only knowledgeable about Namibia, including geology, botany, animals, cultures and the land but also very professional and attentive. We would like to travel with him again." Susan B

DAILY itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Windhoek

You may arrive anytime at Windhoek's Hosea Kutako International airport (WDH) today, but please be sure to arrive before 6 p.m. so that you can participate in the first trip briefing over dinner with your guide at 7 p.m. An MTS representative will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel, the modern Galton House. Check in and freshen up before dinner, when you will meet your guide and the other members of the group.

Dinner

Accommodation:Galton House

Day 2: AfriCat Foundation

This morning you will be collected at the hotel by your guide for the drive north of Windhoek heading towards Okonjima. If the group wishes, we can stop in Okahandja to visit the local craft market, though it is often best to leave any serious curio shopping until the end of the safari. We'll reach Okonjima in time for lunch. Okonjima is home to the AfriCat Foundation, a wildlife sanctuary dedicated to research and rehabilitation of Africa's big cats, especially injured or captured leopard and cheetah. Close encounters with leopard and cheetah are an unforgettable highlight. We'll start with a guided afternoon excursion to either track cheetah on foot or see leopard from the comfort of an open safari vehicle (whichever activity is not done today will be done tomorrow morning). After dinner, we'll take a night drive to a nearby hide where nocturnal animals such as porcupine, caracal, honey badger, and even leopard may be seen.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Okonjima Bush Camp

Day 3: Drive to Etosha National Park

After our second AfriCat activity, we return to Okonjima Bush Camp for brunch before driving further north to the southern boundary of Etosha National Park. We should arrive in time to take a short evening game drive within Etosha park, leaving before sunset and arriving back at camp in time for dinner.

Etosha owes its unique landscape to the Etosha Pan, a vast shallow depression of approximately 1,930 square miles which forms the heart of the park. Once part of a large inland lake fed by rivers from the north and east, it dried up 120 million years ago as continental drift changed the slope of the land and the course of the tributaries. This white, chalky expanse colors the park, and with the waterholes creates the characteristic atmosphere of Etosha today. We'll spend two nights at Andersson's Camp, located in the Ongava Private Game Reserve bordering Etosha. The camp overlooks a waterhole where guests can enjoy the interaction of wildlife coming and going throughout the day and night.

Note- The 2018 itinerary will feature Onguma Tree Top Camp

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Andersson's Camp OR Onguma Tree Top Camp

Day 4: Etosha National Park

Today will be a full day of game viewing in Etosha National Park, Namibia's premier wildlife destination. We can either do two game drives, one early and one afternoon with a return to the lodge at midday for lunch, or we can pack a picnic and spend the whole day in the park (majority vote will decide). Etosha National Park is typified by white calcrete soils, rocky outcrops, and scrub-covered plains which support a variety of game such as giraffe, zebra, lion, rhino, wildebeest, elephant, and various antelope species including oryx, kudus and the endemic black-faced impala. Night drives are not possible within Etosha National Park itself, but are possible in the private game reserve of Ongava, where our camp is located.

Andersson's Camp was named after Swedish explorer Charles Andersson -- one of the first Europeans to "discover" Etosha, Africa's largest saltpan. The resurrected former farmstead that stands on the site now forms the center of a charming camp fronting onto a productive waterhole. The 20 tented en suite units are raised on decks for an enhanced view of the waterhole and surrounding plains.

Note- The 2018 itinerary will feature Onguma Tree Top Camp

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Andersson's Camp OR Onguma Tree Top Camp

Day 5: Damaraland

After breakfast, we'll make our west to Damaraland. This landscape is characterized by hills interspersed with valleys and dry riverbeds. Early morning fog brings precious water to flora and fauna, which have adapted superbly to the harsh environment. Despite its aridity, Damaraland supports a surprising diversity of wildlife, including a healthy number of desert-adapted elephant, as well as giraffe, gemsbok, springbok, the occasional cheetah, and black rhino. We'll stop for lunch under a shady tree out in the wilderness, then begin our search for a traditional Himba settlement, which may take some time as the Himba are a nomadic tribe and may move their cattle to better grazing areas without notice!

The Himba are cattle and goat herders, and are best known for the striking ochre they wear to protect their skin from the desert sun. Over the years, this resilient tribe has survived drought and war, and—with the help of international activists—successfully fought the damming of the Kunene River, which would have flooded their ancestral lands. Under the independent Namibian government, the Himba have mobile schools and control over wildlife and tourism in their nature conservancies. The remote, harsh desert environment has helped them maintain their pastoral lifestyle, and their population currently numbers between 20,000 and 50,000. Many Himba still wear traditional dress, consisting of animal-skin skirts and jewelry that includes coiled leather necklaces, copper bangles, and beaded anklets, and Himba women often sport elaborate braided hairdos.

After an early breakfast, we'll set off with our guide and experienced local trackers to spend most of the day rhino tracking. Namibia is home to the larger of the two subspecies of the black rhinoceros found in southern Africa. The only population that remains in the wild—unhindered by fences and outside of reserves—these rhinos occupy an arid range in the western Kaokoveld. Their preferred habitat is the mountainous escarpment, but they follow ephemeral rivers into the northern Namib as well, especially when conditions are favorable after the rain. They are the only black rhino in Africa that are internationally recognized as a "desert group." Like desrt-adapted elephant, they cover great distances, walking and feeding at night, and resting during the day. Our trackers will look for tracks on the ground and teach us how to identify them. We'll have lunch in the field and return to camp in the late afternoon with some time to relax in the shade of the Mopane trees.

Our mobile camp is fully-serviced and equipped so you can simply relax and revel in the feeling of space and solitude that makes Namibia so special. We use large 10 by 10 foot igloo tents with built in groundsheets and mosquito screens. Each tent has robust light, a bedside table, and camp beds with mattress, duvet, pillows and sheets. Bathroom facilities are shared with flush toilets and running water in the showers. Our camps are all set up for you before you arrive and have their own chef who prepares delicious, wholesome 3-course meals using fresh produce whenever possible.

Note- The 2018 itinerary will feature //Huab Under Canvas Camp

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Damaraland Mobile Camp OR //Huab Under Canvas Camp

Day 7: Damaraland

Today we head south to Camp Kipwe, situated in the heart of Damaraland. This area is known for its displays of color, magnificent table-topped mountains, rock formations and bizarre-looking vegetation. It is the variety and loneliness of the area as well as the scenic splendor which will reward and astound you. During the drive south, we'll explore by 4WD the ephemeral Aba Huab and Huab River valleys, in search of game, including desert-adapted elephants. Desert-adapted elephants in Kaokoland and the Namib walk further for water and fodder than any other elephant in Africa. The distances between waterholes and feeding ground can be as great as 42 miles. To meet their nutritional requirements they graze on no fewer than 74 of the 103 plant species that grow in their range. Lunch will be picnic-style in the bush, with a late afternoon arrival into our camp.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Camp Kipwe

Day 8: Twyfelfontein to Swakopmund

After an early breakfast, we'll head out to explore the nearby attractions and geological features of the Twyfelfontein rock engravings, Burnt Mountain, and the Organ Pipes. The petroglyphs at Twyfelfontein, recently named a World Heritage Site, are difficult to date accurately, but archaeologists believe they span a period of about 1,500 to 5,000 years ago. The artists were groups of San who walked the length of the country and recorded images from their journeys on massive sandstone cliffs in the area. The engravings lie along two circular routes; one is an hour's climb and the easier route takes about one hour and forty minutes. A rounded hill located just a few miles from Twyfelfontein, known as the Burnt Mountain, seems to catch fire at sunrise and sunset. This is due to a chemical reaction that took place roughly 125 million years ago when molten lava penetrated organic shale and limestone deposits, resulting in contact metamorphism. The Organ Pipes are another geological curiosity in the area consisting of a mass of perpendicular dolerite columns that intruded the surrounding rocks millions of years ago and have since been exposed in a ravine due to river erosion.

Once these sites have been visited, we'll head further south past Brandberg, Namibia's tallest mountain, then veer west to the coastal town of Henties Bay before turning south again to Swakopmund.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Hansa Hotel

Day 9: Kayaking Walvis Bay

After an early breakfast, we'll drive along the scenic coastal road to Walvis Bay for a memorable Namibian kayaking adventure within the outer lagoon. Before getting into our kayaks, we'll drive to the lighthouse at Pelican Point and stop at the salt works to admire the views and check out the birdlife. Kayaking is an ideal way to see Cape fur seals, Heaviside and bottlenose dolphins, pelicans, flamingos, and a wide variety of other sea birds. If we are lucky, there is the chance of seeing whales, leatherback turtles, and sunfish as well. We'll stop for snacks on the beach before heading back to Walvis Bay. No experience is necessary to enjoy the kayaking today. We'll head back to the hotel in the afternoon for a little leisure time before dinner.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Hansa Hotel

Day 10: Drive to Sossusvlei

Our fascinating drive today takes us southeast through the awesome and ever-changing desert landscapes of the Gaub and Kuiseb canyons until we find the dunes at the entrance to Namib Naukluft National Park. En route you will stop in the charming 'town' of Solitaire. Make sure to try the warm apple tart at Moose McGregor's Bakery - the best in all of Southern Africa! There is the option, at additional cost, to take a scenic flight today, over the Dune Sea, abandoned mining camps, shipwrecks, Sandwich Harbour, and salt pans to Sossusvlei, instead of driving. Those trip members who choose to fly will meet up with the guides and group later in the day at the Sossus Dune Lodge.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Sossus Dune Lodge

Day 11: Sossusvlei

This morning you will rise early for a magical excursion with your guide in the Namib Naukluft National Park, setting off from the lodge within the park boundary. As a result, you can be on your way at sunrise to capture the dunes while the light is soft and shadows accentuate their towering shapes and curves—a photographer's dream! This area boasts some of the highest free-standing sand dunes in the world, and your guide will give you an insight to the formation of the Namib Desert and the myriad of fascinating creatures and plants that have adapted to survive its harsh environs. Once you have explored to your heart's content you can enjoy a relaxing picnic breakfast under the shade of a camel thorn tree.

Return to Sossus Dune Lodge in the early afternoon for a late lunch, stopping off to view Sesriem Canyon en route, if this wasn't done the previous day. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Sossus Dune Lodge OR Desert Homestead Outpost

Day 12: Sossusvlei to Windhoek

After breakfast you bid farewell to the Namib Desert, traversing the Great Escarpment and scenic Khomas Hochland highlands to make your way back to Windhoek. Upon arrival in Windhoek your guide will transfer you to Galton House for the last night of your trip. This evening you will have your farewell dinner at The Galton's in-house restaurant.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation:Galton House

Day 13: Depart Windhoek

Spend as much of the day as is available relaxing at the guest house or exploring town until it is time to be transferred to the Windhoek International Airport in time for your international flight home.

Breakfast

lodgings

//Huab Under Canvas Camp — Damaraland

Located in a desert-adapted black rhino area in the Huab Conservancy in Damaraland, is this amazing private camp. //Huab Under Canvas camp uses large rectangular Meru tents (4m x 3m and 2.5 m high) with built in groundsheets and mosquito screens on all doors and windows. Each tent is equipped with solar lighting, bedside table, comfortable standard height camp beds and mattresses with normal bedding as well as an additional blanket and a hot water bottle for those chilly nights, and a cabinet in which to store clothing and other belongings that need to be accessible. Towels and toiletries are also provided in the bathroom which also has its own toilet (flush or field depending on the location of the camp), bucket shower and washbasin. A small table, mirror and solar lighting are also provided in the bathroom, and chairs on the patio allow guests to relax and enjoy the surrounding view.

Andersson's Camp — Etosha, Namibia

Named for Charles Andersson, the Swedish explorer who first "discovered" the Etosha pan in 1851, Andersson's Camp is set against the stunning backdrop of the low Ondundozonanandana Mountains. Located within the private Ongava Game Reserve, which borders Etosha National Park, the camp looks onto a watering hole where guests can observe wildlife throughout the day and night. Between viewings of rhinos, zebras, giraffes, lions and more, guests can enjoy the grounds of this former farmhouse, which has been updated with modern facilities such as a dining area, bar and swimming pool. Tents, actually more like huts, radiate outwards into the secluded Mopane woodlands typical of the region. They feature simple yet elegant decor, and have been constructed using mix of stone cladding, canvas and wood, with a small veranda and open-air en-suite bathrooms. It's an atmospheric camp with incredible wildlife watching.

Camp Kipwe — Damaraland, Namibia

From a distance, it looks like a collection of boulders that have settled after a landslide. Upon closer inspection, you see it, nestled among the massive rocks—a grouping of thatched roof huts that cleverly blend in with their impressive surroundings. This singular hotel experience is Camp Kipwe, made up of nine elegant yet understated bungalows. Outside each bungalow is an en-suite bathroom, with a shower, and a private veranda overlooking the surrounding plains. The views of Damaraland's unique geological landscape are stunning, and the wildlife that awaits to be seen is awe-inspiring. After a long day of tracking elephant herds, return to the peaceful lodge for an excellent meal and sundowner cocktails—a perfect end to an incredible adventure.

Damaraland Mobile Camp — Damaraland, Namibia

Our mobile camps are non-participatory and serviced to ensure that guests are extremely comfortable while out in the less developed and remote wilderness areas. We use 10ft x10f x 7ft igloo tents with built-in groundsheet and mosquito screens on all doors and windows. Each tent is equipped with bedside tables, camp beds, a bed roll contianing a mattress, duvet, pillow, sheet and towel. Ablutions, with flush toilet and running water in the showers, are shared among guests.

Desert Homestead Outpost — Sossusvlei

Deep in the desert of Sossusvlei, Desert Homestead Lodge Outpost offers relaxed hospitality in a spectacular natural atmosphere. Enjoy the impressive panoramic views from one of the 12 stylish guesthouses, which offer shaded sun decks, air conditioning, coffee makers and refrigerators. The main house features a restaurant, lounge and pool area. On the wide open plains there are often cheetahs to observe, roaming the endless grasslands.

Galton House — Windhoek, Namiba

Galton House is one of Windhoek's newest accommodation establishments. The seven rooms are all equipped with internet connectivity, satelite television, coffee/tea station and general guest amenities. The communal areas consist of a large lounge, dining room, swimming pool and garden. There is also delightful al fresco dining area by the pool, serving freshly prepared and very tasty meals. There are also a number shops, restarants and supermarkets within easy walking distance.

Hansa Hotel — Swakopmund

The Hansa Hotel is nestled in the heart of the charming town of Swakopmund, Namibia. The German-style accommodations in this classical building dating from 1905 are an integral part of Swakopmund's architectural heritage. Each room is individually decorated and fitted with radiant floor heating, satellite television, hairdryers, safes, coffee/tea facilities and en-suite bathrooms. There are two restaurants on-site, with breakfast and dinner served in the main dining room and lunch on the terrace. Cozy up to the fireplace at the bar for an evening cocktail after a long day of exploring Namibia.

Okonjima Bush Camp — Okonjima, Namibia

Okonjima Bush Camp is in charming thatched African style chalets linked by walkways to a main Lapa area shaped like a camelthorn pod where meals are taken and activities begin. Each exclusive en suite chalet is completely private and the green canvas 'walls' can be rolled up to give you an 180 degree view so you can lie in bed and watch life in the bush going on around you whilst you relax in total comfort.

Onguma Tree Top Camp — Onguma Game Reserve- Etosha

Onguma Tree Top Camp is a small and intimate camp, especially designed for those travellers who would like to truly experience the bush in all its raw splendour. This is where guests are able to come and relax for a few days in the midst of their busy travelling schedule, and just breathe in the aromas of the bush and take in all the wildness that this place has to offer.

The Camp is built on wooden stilts amongst the tree tops with full views over one of the most beautiful watering holes on Onguma Game Reserve. The Camp consists of 4 thatched rooms with canvas walls, outside showers, a dining room and a main complex. Onguma Tree Top Camp is a place to savour, small bits at a time. A place where giraffe, zebra, lion, and many other species of antelope come to quench their thirst. A place where birds and animals become your daily companion. Onguma - a place you will not want to forget.

Note: The 2018 itinerary will feature Onguma Tree Top Camp

Sossus Dune Lodge — Sossusvlei, Namibia

Sossus Dune Lodge is ideally located with dramatic views out over the surrounding desert landscapes; its unique location allows you early entry into the dunes at Sossusvlei an hour before sunrise and a late exit an hour after sunset. Accommodation is in very comfortable en-suite wooden and canvas chalets that lead to a private wooden veranda overlooking the expansive desert plains. There is a large main area consisting of a dining room, a swimming pool and a pleasant bar.

Easy

Many activities are optional and involve fairly easy travel. Trips may include short hikes of two to three hours or optional walks at low elevations. Includes less demanding sea kayaking and river rafting trips with Class I-II rapids.

Moderate

More active trips involving hiking over moderate terrain, usually - but not always - with vehicle support and at elevations less than 10,000 feet, or trips with long hiking days, multiple sea kayaking days, wilderness camping, or other invigorating activity. On many trips, you can elect to skip a day's activity, depending on logistics. Includes more demanding sea kayaking trips and river rafting trips with Class III rapids.

Strenuous

Hiking and trekking over steeper or more rugged terrain or where elevations may exceed 10,000 feet - often several days in a row. Includes more demanding sea kayaking trips (4-5 hours paddling a day) and river rafting trips with Class IV-V rapids.